The long-awaited project to expand the Kroger on University Avenue is set to begin in the coming weeks after years of speculation.  

A Kroger Delta Division spokesperson confirmed the news to the EAGLE on Thursday. 

The Oxford Planning Commission approved plans in November, which will double the size of the grocery store and include a Starbucks as well as a restaurant. The store’s footprint is currently nearly 58,000 square feet, but will expand to nearly 110,000 square feet once the project is complete. Each department in the store will be expanded.  

Other improvements will include a two-lane drive-thru for the pharmacy. The pick-up service will still be offered following the expansion. 

The strip mall that is currently connected to Kroger will be demolished to allow for the expansion. The building has sat vacant since 2016 when several stores, including Tequila’s Mexican restaurant and PJ’s Wine and Spirits, were forced to find new locations.  

Along with the grocery store’s changes, there will also be additions made to the gas station, including four new pumps. The current entrance into Kroger will be moved eastward to connect with Booker Road as part of a new traffic light that will be installed as part of the expansion.